Tag: Revelation 3:10

Light in the Last Days – Day 48

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment

Why is the timing of the Rapture such a divisive topic? While the disagreement among Christians is discouraging, the Word of God offers a verse so clear it settles the heart. It’s one of my favorites, and it points directly to a pre-Tribulation departure. The key is in the promise to ‘escape all these things.’ You don’t ‘escape’ something you have already lived through; you are delivered from it before it arrives. To see the ‘things’ Jesus is referring to—the signs, the terrors, and the judgments—take a look at Luke 21:6-35. Let’s listen closely to the Lord’s own words on the matter.

Luke 21:6-35  As for these things which ye behold, the days will come, in the which there shall not be left one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.  (7)  And they asked him, saying, Master, but when shall these things be? and what sign will there be when these things shall come to pass?  ( 8 )  And he said, Take heed that ye be not deceived: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and the time draweth near: go ye not therefore after them.  (9)  But when ye shall hear of wars and commotions, be not terrified: for these things must first come to pass; but the end is not by and by.  (10)  Then said he unto them, Nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom:  (11)  And great earthquakes shall be in divers places, and famines, and pestilences; and fearful sights and great signs shall there be from heaven.  (12)  But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name’s sake.  (13)  And it shall turn to you for a testimony.  (14)  Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:  (15)  For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.  (16)  And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.  (17)  And ye shall be hated of all men for my name’s sake.  (18)  But there shall not an hair of your head perish.  (19)  In your patience possess ye your souls.  (20)  And when ye shall see Jerusalem compassed with armies, then know that the desolation thereof is nigh.  (21)  Then let them which are in Judaea flee to the mountains; and let them which are in the midst of it depart out; and let not them that are in the countries enter thereinto.  (22)  For these be the days of vengeance, that all things which are written may be fulfilled.  (23)  But woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck, in those days! for there shall be great distress in the land, and wrath upon this people.  (24)  And they shall fall by the edge of the sword, and shall be led away captive into all nations: and Jerusalem shall be trodden down of the Gentiles, until the times of the Gentiles be fulfilled.  (25)  And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring;  (26)  Men’s hearts failing them for fear, and for looking after those things which are coming on the earth: for the powers of heaven shall be shaken.  (27)  And then shall they see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory.  (28)  And when these things begin to come to pass, then look up, and lift up your heads; for your redemption draweth nigh.  (29)  And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;  (30)  When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.  (31)  So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand.  (32)  Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass away, till all be fulfilled.  (33)  Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away.  (34)  And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares.  (35)  For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. (36) Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man. 

By the time the Tribulation reaches its conclusion, every judgment and trial mentioned by Christ has already unfolded. If the Rapture were to occur then, the concept of ‘escaping’ would be meaningless—there would simply be nothing left to escape. Furthermore, Jesus specifically instructs us to pray for the worthiness to avoid these coming terrors. Why would we pray for an escape from events that have already passed? The only event following the Tribulation is the glorious inauguration of the Millennial reign of our Savior and King. To understand why this must be the case, we must look at the unique promises God has made to the Church and why He would never subject His own Bride to the hour of His wrath.

Ephesians 1:22-23 And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, (23) Which is his body, the fulness of him that filleth all in all.

Ephesians 5:29-30  For no man ever yet hated his own flesh; but nourisheth and cherisheth it, even as the Lord the church:  (30)  For we are members of his body, of his flesh, and of his bones.

Revelation 6:16  And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:

It is a fundamental biblical truth that the Church is the Body of Christ, with Jesus Himself as the Head. The Apostle Paul illustrates this by comparing us to the members of a physical body—unified and inseparable. This raises a vital question: why would Christ pour out wrath upon His own Body? In Revelation 6:16, we see those on earth pleading for the mountains to fall on them to hide them from ‘the wrath of the Lamb.’ If the Church were present during this time, it would imply that the Savior is at war with His own members. Why would the redeemed cry out to hide from the face of their own Savior and King?

Colossians 1:24 Who now rejoice in my sufferings for you, and fill up that which is behind of the afflictions of Christ in my flesh for his body’s sake, which is the church:

1 Corinthians 12:12-14 For as the body is one, and hath many members, and all the members of that one body, being many, are one body: so also is Christ. (13) For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body, whether we be Jews or Gentiles, whether we be bond or free; and have been all made to drink into one Spirit. (14) For the body is not one member, but many.

1 Corinthians 12:27 Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.

If we are indeed the body of Christ, why would Christ allow His own body to go through the Father’s wrath? (Ephesians 5:29) Jesus Christ is God and, therefore, won’t bring wrath upon Himself. It makes perfect sense! We must understand this teaching in order to believe in the promise of a pre-Tribulation Rapture. As we learned in the study on the Book of Revelation, the Church at Philadelphia was promised that she would be kept from a time of trial to come upon all the earth.

Revelation 3:10 Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Not since Noah’s flood has a trial come upon the entire world. This verse must, therefore, refer to the Tribulation period. Furthermore, that same verse says: “I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation.” The Greek for the word “from” is “ek” which means “out of”!

Who will the Lord keep from the hour of temptation? The Church is the only logical answer! The word “church(es)” is not found at all after chapter 3:22 of Revelation. It reappears in Revelation 22:16-17 when it is also referred to as the Bride! What husband would allow his wife to be tortured, possibly beheaded, as well as allow her to suffer the wrath of God? None would, especially our Lord, our Groom!!

Do you see how when all the verses are put together, they form the pre-Tribulation Rapture viewpoint? Friend, if you are not born again, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Don’t you want to be a part of the Church when she is raptured into the clouds to meet Jesus? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 43

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment

There is a powerful promise in the book of Revelation that I absolutely love! Jesus pledges to keep His followers completely out of the hour of trial: a trial that is to come upon the whole world and all that are alive at the time. Why this special protection? It’s His response to those who have steadfastly ‘kept the word of His patience’ through every circumstance.

Philippians 3:20  For our conversation is in heaven; from whence also we look for the Saviour, the Lord Jesus Christ:

1 Corinthians 1:7  So that ye come behind in no gift; waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ:

Titus 2:13  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

1 Thessalonians 1:10  And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come.

Jude 1:21  Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life.

Romans 8:19-23  For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.  (20)  For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected the same in hope,  (21)  Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.  (22)  For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now.  (23)  And not only they, but ourselves also, which have the firstfruits of the Spirit, even we ourselves groan within ourselves, waiting for the adoption, to wit, the redemption of our body.

The mark of a true believer is a longing for Christ’s appearing. This ‘authentic’ new birth is found in those who have truly repented and become new creations in Him. But we aren’t just meant to wait idly; we are told to ‘occupy’ until He comes. To ‘occupy’ means to be engaged in the business of the Kingdom, winning souls, strengthening the Church, and being a vessel for the Holy Spirit. We don’t just wait for the end; we work until the end!

Now let’s go back and look at Revelation 3:10. Jesus says that He will keep us “from” the hour of “temptation.” There are two things here that I want you to look at:

  • The Greek word for “from” is “ek,” which means “out of.” This where we get our word exit. Strong’s defines it as “A primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence motion or action proceeds), from, out (of place, time or cause; literally or figuratively; direct or remote) This does not mean that God will protect the Church through the Tribulation period, as some believe. Jesus said He will keep us out of the Tribulation period.
  • Secondly, the word temptation is used in the verse. This is not referring to being tempted to sin. The word temptation here is referring to a trial. Greek word is “peirasmos” which Strong’s defines as: From G3985; a putting to proof (by experiment [of good], experience [of evil], solicitation, discipline or provocation); by implication adversity: – temptation, X try. Jesus is saying that the Tribulation period will be a time that the world will experience extreme evil. It is a trial that no would willingly want to go through if they knew what was to come.

God has always provided a way of escape for His people, just as He did for Noah and his family in the midst of a corrupt world. We can trust that He will do the same for the Church. Scripture identifies us as the Bride of Christ, and 2 Corinthians 11:2 explains that we are betrothed to Him. As our future Husband, Christ’s nature is to protect. No devoted husband would stand by and let his wife face destruction or endure violence. Ephesians 5:25-27 outlines the sacrificial and protective role of a husband, a standard that the Lord perfectly fulfills for His Church. This fits beautifully into the pre-Tribulation Rapture teaching!

In a future post, we will cover why the Church won’t go through God’s wrath. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved if you are not already. Don’t you want to be a part of the Church when she is raptured into the clouds to meet Jesus? (1 Thessalonians 4:17) Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 36

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment

I pray this blog has strengthened your faith and highlighted the encouragement of the Pre-Tribulation Rapture! This study has set my heart on fire to spread this “blessed hope” even further. To anyone reading who doesn’t know Christ, may you experience His free gift right now. While it’s disappointing that the Rapture is rarely discussed in some churches, we shouldn’t lose heart; let’s continue to uplift each other with the truth that we will soon be home with the Lord.

While my previous post focused on the “when” of the Rapture, today’s post explores the “why.” To understand this, we have to look at the Bible through the lens of God’s chosen people, Israel. After listening to Amir Tsarfati recently, I was struck by his reminder that the early Church fathers were Jews who relied solely on the Hebrew Scriptures. Though the specific event of the Rapture is a mystery revealed later, its timing is anchored in Old Testament prophecies that Jesus carefully expounded during His earthly ministry.

The first of these prophecies that had to come to past to usher in the “end times” was:

Isaiah 43:5-6  Fear not: for I am with thee: I will bring thy seed from the east, and gather thee from the west;  (6)  I will say to the north, Give up; and to the south, Keep not back: bring my sons from far, and my daughters from the ends of the earth;

Jeremiah 16:14-15  Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that it shall no more be said, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;  (15)  But, The LORD liveth, that brought up the children of Israel from the land of the north, and from all the lands whither he had driven them: and I will bring them again into their land that I gave unto their fathers.

Jeremiah 23:3  And I will gather the remnant of my flock out of all countries whither I have driven them, and will bring them again to their folds; and they shall be fruitful and increase.

Jeremiah 23:7-8  Therefore, behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that they shall no more say, The LORD liveth, which brought up the children of Israel out of the land of Egypt;  ( 8 )  But, The LORD liveth, which brought up and which led the seed of the house of Israel out of the north country, and from all countries whither I had driven them; and they shall dwell in their own land.

Jeremiah 29:14  And I will be found of you, saith the LORD: and I will turn away your captivity, and I will gather you from all the nations, and from all the places whither I have driven you, saith the LORD; and I will bring you again into the place whence I caused you to be carried away captive.

Jeremiah 31:7-8  For thus saith the LORD; Sing with gladness for Jacob, and shout among the chief of the nations: publish ye, praise ye, and say, O LORD, save thy people, the remnant of Israel.  ( 8 )  Behold, I will bring them from the north country, and gather them from the coasts of the earth, and with them the blind and the lame, the woman with child and her that travaileth with child together: a great company shall return thither.

Ezekiel 28:25-26  Thus saith the Lord GOD; When I shall have gathered the house of Israel from the people among whom they are scattered, and shall be sanctified in them in the sight of the heathen, then shall they dwell in their land that I have given to my servant Jacob.  (26)  And they shall dwell safely therein, and shall build houses, and plant vineyards; yea, they shall dwell with confidence, when I have executed judgments upon all those that despise them round about them; and they shall know that I am the LORD their God.

Amos 9:14-15  And I will bring again the captivity of my people of Israel, and they shall build the waste cities, and inhabit them; and they shall plant vineyards, and drink the wine thereof; they shall also make gardens, and eat the fruit of them.  (15)  And I will plant them upon their land, and they shall no more be pulled up out of their land which I have given them, saith the LORD thy God.

The rebirth of Israel is a direct fulfillment of ancient prophetic scripture, occurring right before our eyes. It’s a staggering transformation, especially when you consider the state of the land just 150 years ago. In 1867, Mark Twain traveled through the region and recorded these famous observations in The Innocents Abroad:

“….. A desolate country whose soil is rich enough, but is given over wholly to weeds… a silent mournful expanse…. a desolation…. we never saw a human being on the whole route…. hardly a tree or shrub anywhere. Even the olive tree and the cactus, those fast friends of a worthless soil, had almost deserted the country.”

God was “tilling the soil,” so to speak, for the return of the Jews. A quick image search of the land from the late 1800s versus today reveals a “before and after” that defies logic. Seeing that dust and rock turn into a blossoming garden is proof that we are living in the days the prophets spoke about. It is prophecy unfolding in real-time!

If God could create the world in six days, imagine how easily He could orchestrate the events of May 1948! It was a historic day of celebration as the Jews returned to a land divine Providence had made ready. In the Gospels, Jesus points to Israel as the “fig tree,” and His instructions were clear: we must understand the lesson of the Fig Tree to know the season we are in:

Matthew 24:32-33  Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh:  (33)  So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.

What is the “takeaway” for us today? It’s found in Jesus’ own words. He promised that the generation witnessing the restoration of the “fig tree” would still be here to see His return. This isn’t just history; it’s a direct sign that we are living in the season of Christ’s soon arrival!

Matthew 24:34-35  Verily I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.  (35)  Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away.

Believe it or not, we are that generation! This isn’t just a guess; it’s based on the word of Christ, who promised that even if the world passes away, His truth remains forever. What a privilege! From 1948 to this very moment, we have been living in the season where seeing His return is a distinct reality for those of us alive today.

If you aren’t excited yet, this next point will certainly do the trick. It’s a powerful piece of the prophetic puzzle found in:

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Here is a “golden nugget”: in Strong’s Concordance, the Greek word for “from” is ek, meaning “out of.” This is our promise that Jesus will preserve the Church out of the hour of trial coming upon the earth. Like the note in my Bible says, this is a reason for hope, not fear! This couldn’t be a past event for the Philadelphian church because a truly global judgment, equivalent to the Flood, hasn’t happened since John penned these words. We see earthquakes and pestilence today, but we have yet to see the specific, severe judgment that tries the whole world at once. As Christ’s Bride, the Church, we have no need to worry because we will be kept out of the Great Tribulation coming upon the whole world.

If the Rapture and the Second Coming are new concepts to you, I hope this series has been a blessing. You aren’t here by accident, friend. God has orchestrated this moment for you to hear His word and respond to His call of salvation. You were meant to be here for such a time as this! Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 24

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment
Photography by Linda Dunlap

It is important to stay informed about current events, but as believers, we must remain wise by filtering everything we hear through the lens of God’s Word, especially in light of AI taking over. I’ve found that much of the mainstream media is heavily biased, often acting as a mouthpiece for a worldly perspective rather than a conservative one. By staying aware, I know exactly how to pray. Because I start my day with the Lord, the Holy Spirit has already prepared my heart to navigate the news with a spiritual perspective.

It’s hard to ignore how the media shapes the narrative toward a global agenda. My perspective isn’t based on theories, but on biblical prophecy unfolding before our eyes. We see a world divided by labels and misled by digital misinformation, reaching a level of corruption that feels entirely unique to our time. A quote I heard recently sums it up perfectly: ‘The problem of the heart is the heart of the problem!’ This is the great tragedy of our day—churches may be full, but many are missing the vital, heart-transforming power of being born again.

Reflecting on my journey since April 1980, I’m struck by how much more difficult it has become to share the Gospel openly. What used to be an accepted part of Christian life is now often met with hostility or legal labels. Yet, we shouldn’t be surprised—the Apostles faced far worse for the sake of the Cross. I use the news today not to cause fear, but to provide a biblical perspective on the times we live in. These stories are reminders that the Rapture is a ‘right now’ reality. We must live with the constant expectation of His return!

The Tribulation is specifically ‘the time of Jacob’s trouble,’ centered on Israel rather than the Church. We must be clear: the Church has not replaced Israel. We are currently in the ‘Church Age,’ a prophetic interval that ends with the Rapture. Only after we are gone will Daniel’s 70th week—the Tribulation—resume. Although this judgment will shake the entire earth, the Church will not be a part of it. Instead, we will be in Heaven with our Savior, ready for the Marriage Supper. God’s plan is to spare the Church from the judgment of Israel’s rebellion, keeping us entirely from that time of wrath.

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Watching the news today, it’s hard to ignore the growing bias against the faith and the nation of Israel. We shouldn’t take our current freedoms in America for granted, as they likely won’t last forever. We’ve already seen how quickly the tide can turn; during the pandemic, the world’s true colors were revealed in its hatred for churches that stayed open. To see ministers of the Gospel arrested and mocked by their own peers was a surreal and tragic experience. It’s a vivid reminder that we are living in a world that increasingly calls evil good and good evil.

It is sobering to watch our foundational freedoms begin to slip away. To illustrate this, I’m sharing an article from a few years ago that remains a powerful warning for our current time. Published by the Christian Post, it details how 55 federal agencies began tracking religious exemption requests. Even though time has passed since the original report, the underlying shift in how our government views religious objection is deeply concerning. Here are the paragraphs that caught my attention:

For example, the Treasury Department’s Office of Civil Rights and Diversity has stated its database will document all religious exemption requests and denials.

The office “will track and maintain ‘information about a requestor’s religious beliefs’ as well as the ‘informal dispute resolution’ of each person,” the Liberty Counsel Action statement reads.

“It will also record ‘correspondence,’ ‘supporting notes and documentation’ and even ‘records of oral conversations,’ on every person who requests an exemption. This database will track and record this level of information for everyone from ‘pre-employment, during current or former employment or for [attendees at] a particular event.’”

While there are variations in the rules across the government agencies, the group warns that “all of them are causing serious concern about invasive privacy violations by the federal government recording and permanently storing religious and medical data on those seeking exemptions. ”HTTPS://WWW.CHRISTIANPOST.COM/NEWS/55-FEDERAL-AGENCIES-TRACKING-RELIGIOUS-OBJECTION-REQUESTS.HTML

This should serve as a wake-up call for every believer. These tracking systems are clear precursors to the prophetic warnings about the Antichrist’s reign. The World Economic Forum (WEF) is no longer hiding its goals; leaders like Klaus Schwab and Yuval Noah Harari are openly discussing transhumanism and the computerization of the human brain, aiming for perfection by mid-century. Combined with the rollout of ’15-minute cities,’ the potential for total surveillance is staggering. To see exactly what they are planning, watch this 40-minute presentation. Even though it’s from a secular perspective, it reveals an agenda that aligns perfectly with what Scripture warns us is coming.

Understanding the WEF’s vision opens our eyes to the true agenda for our world. This shift is creating the perfect platform for the Antichrist to take his place. In fact, the conditions required for the verse below are already being put into position.

Revelation 13:16-17  And he causeth all, both small and great, rich and poor, free and bond, to receive a mark in their right hand, or in their foreheads:  (17)  And that no man might buy or sell, save he that had the mark, or the name of the beast, or the number of his name.

Consider the logistical side of the Antichrist’s reign—global tracking would be impossible without a universal identifier. The Bible explicitly states that a mark will be required on the hand or forehead. Though the specific nature of the mark remains a mystery, its consequences are crystal clear. Choosing to take this mark results in an eternal separation from God. It is an irreversible decision with stakes that couldn’t be higher.

Additionally, the coming one-world religion will demand total spiritual alignment, forbidding any beliefs that don’t fit its narrative. This won’t just be a suggestion; it will be a legal requirement enforced by the global government’s oversight, much like we see in China today.

Revelation 20:4  And I saw thrones, and they sat upon them, and judgment was given unto them: and I saw the souls of them that were beheaded for the witness of Jesus, and for the word of God, and which had not worshipped the beast, neither his image, neither had received his mark upon their foreheads, or in their hands; and they lived and reigned with Christ a thousand years.

Scripture warns us that total information tracking will be ‘alive and well’ during the Tribulation. Now more than ever, we need to immerse ourselves in the Bible, for only God’s Word can open our eyes to the truth. Let us be wise in these closing hours. Seek the Lord’s face and ask Him to clarify His purpose and will for you today.

Proverbs 2:6  For the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding.

1 Corinthians 3:19  For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God. For it is written, He taketh the wise in their own craftiness.

A wise rule for any Christian: when the world is in favor of something, start asking questions. Don’t take the world’s word for it—do your own research and measure everything against Scripture. As you pray for discernment, remember that God promised never to leave you or forsake you.

James 1:5  If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.

For the believer, the signs of the times are a thrilling reminder that our Savior’s return is imminent. However, for those without Christ, these same signs can be deeply unsettling. Please realize that you have been brought to this page for such a time as this. You don’t have to live in fear. You can find the same hope I have by following this link: You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 22

On By KateIn Devotionals, Light in the Last DaysLeave a comment

Looking at today’s picture, I can’t help but think of the Rapture! The idea of Christ coming in the clouds for us is incredibly exciting. I dwell on this hope every day, yearning for that eternal reunion with our Lord. This post covers a lot of ground, but please stick with me; the insights regarding the Jewish wedding traditions were a huge blessing to me, and I believe they will be for you too.

Understanding the Rapture starts with a simple but vital truth: Jesus’ next coming involves two separate events. There is His appearance in the air for the Church, and His physical return to Israel for His chosen people. Many viewpoints get tangled because they try to merge the two. We must be careful to avoid ‘Replacement Theology,’ which wrongly claims the Church has taken Israel’s place. Let’s follow the example of the Bereans! They didn’t just take someone’s word for it; they studied the Scriptures daily to find the truth. We should do the same as we look forward to His return!

Act 17:10-11  And the brethren immediately sent away Paul and Silas by night unto Bereans: who coming thither went into the synagogue of the Jews.  (11)  These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so.

Paul’s writings are where we find the most detail regarding the ‘mystery’ of the Rapture. This specific term appears 22 times in the New Testament, frequently linked to the revelation of Christ’s Gospel to the Gentiles. By examining Paul’s letters—such as Romans, Ephesians, and Colossians—we see how God began revealing these hidden truths that had been kept secret since the world began (see Romans 11:24-25, 16:25, 1 Corinthians 2:7, Ephesians 1:9, 3:3-4, 3:9, 5:32, 6:19, Colossians 1:26-27, Colossians 2:2, 1 Timothy 3:9, 3:16).

We have the incredible privilege of being just as studious as the Bereans because those very same Scriptures are in our hands today! What a profound blessing this is, especially as we navigate a world that has changed so drastically. The world we knew twenty years ago has faded, replaced by an era of increasing darkness. Yet, we are called to be witnesses of Christ’s salvation. As we do His work, we should lift each other up with the glorious hope of the Rapture. This ‘mystery’ isn’t just a doctrine; it is our comfort, reminding us that just as God provided for Noah and Lot, He will surely care for us!

1 Corinthians 15:51-54  Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed,  (52)  In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.  (53)  For this corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.  (54)  So when this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then shall be brought to pass the saying that is written, Death is swallowed up in victory.

What is the Apostle Paul teaching us here? He is explaining that at the Rapture, those who have died in Christ will receive their glorified bodies as they rise to meet Him (while their spirits are already with the Lord, their bodies are now raised). Those of us who are alive at His coming will also be transformed, receiving immortal bodies in an instant. This is vital because our current ‘flesh and blood’ is subject to decay and cannot inhabit eternity. These new, incorruptible bodies are designed to last forever! Just as Jesus promised to prepare a place for us, He will physically remove us from this earth—just as He rescued Noah and Lot—before His wrath is poured out on the world.

John 14:1-3  Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me.  (2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.  (3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

In Revelation 3:10, the ‘hour of temptation’ refers to a specific ‘hour of trial’ that is destined to come upon the entire world. Scripture promises that believers will be kept from this time of testing. This reinforces the truth that there are two separate returns: the Rapture, where we meet Christ in the air, and His later return to the earth. Because the Rapture comes ‘as a thief in the night,’ the timing is a mystery. Just as a homeowner is caught off guard by a sudden robbery, the world will be unprepared for this swift and unexpected event.

1 Thessalonians 4:16-18  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

1 Thessalonians 5:2  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Post-Tribulation proponents suggest that the ‘thief in the night’ occurs at the end of the Tribulation. But this contradicts the idea of an unknown hour! Since the seven-year Tribulation has a definite, scriptural number of days, anyone living through it could predict exactly when it ends. A ‘thief’ doesn’t announce his arrival with a seven-year warning!

We must distinguish between Christ’s appearance in the air and His return to the ground. The Rapture is a private rescue for the Bride, occurring unexpectedly at an unknown hour. However, the Second Coming is a public event where Jesus returns to Israel to conclude the Tribulation. Revelation 19:14 shows the armies of Heaven following Him, clothed in clean, white linen. Since this fine linen represents the saints washed in the Blood of the Lamb, it proves the Church is already in Heaven, ready to return with Him. The Rapture is a mystery for the Church, but the Second Coming is a manifestation seen by the whole world!

Revelation 19:7-8  Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.  ( 8 )  And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

Revelation 19:11-15  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  (12)  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  (13)  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  (14)  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.  (15)  And out of his mouth goeth a sharp sword, that with it he should smite the nations: and he shall rule them with a rod of iron: and he treadeth the winepress of the fierceness and wrath of Almighty God.

Amen—only the blood of Jesus can make us clean! Because of this, we know that the army following Christ in Revelation 19 isn’t composed of angels. Angels are holy, but they haven’t been redeemed by the Blood of the Lamb. The Bible tells us that the ‘fine linen, white and clean’ is reserved for the saints—the Church. By looking closely at the text, we see that the Bride is the one returning with her Groom. It pays to be like the Bereans! When you study these details for yourself, you find so much encouragement in God’s specific plan for His Church.

The idea of a Rapture occurring at the end of the Tribulation creates a conflict in the scriptural timeline. How could the Church attend the Marriage Supper in Heaven if we are only meeting the Lord as He descends to earth? The answer lies in the ancient Jewish wedding customs. By walking through the phases of a wedding in biblical times, you will see a stunning comparison that clarifies the timing of our rescue.

There are seven phases from the betrothal to the actual marriage consummation!!! Doesn’t this bless you? As you know, the number seven symbolizes perfection. What a blessing! The phases are:

  1. The father of the groom made the arrangements for the marriage and paid a price for the bride. The Father sent His Son, Jesus Christ, to earth to pay for the bride with His blood. (1 Corinthians 6:20)  For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s. (1 Corinthians 7:23)  Ye are bought with a price; be not ye the servants of men.
  2. The bridegroom goes back home to prepare a place for his bride. (John 14:2)  In my Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. (John 14:3)  And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.
  3. The father of the groom determined the timing of when the bridegroom would return to get his bride. The bridegroom did not know the exact time. (Matthew 24:36)  But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. (Mark 13:32)  But of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.
  4. The bride is consecrated and set apart. (1 Peter 2:9) But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:
  5. Once the father of the groom gave the go ahead, the bridegroom would go to where the bride was. The groom returns with a shout. (1 Thessalonians 4:16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout. He then takes his bride to his home. (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep. (16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first: (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.
  6. The bride and groom go to the wedding chamber. The bride and groom stay in their chamber for seven days. (Isaiah 26:20) Come, my people, enter thou into thy chambers, and shut thy doors about thee: hide thyself as it were for a little moment, until the indignation be overpast.” Praise the Lord! Scripture tells us that a prophetic day can equal a year. (see Numbers 14:34) The seven days the Jewish bride and groom spend in the wedding chamber appear to equate to seven years of Tribulation. (Daniel 9:27) Then he shall confirm a covenant with many for one week; But in the middle of the week He shall bring an end to sacrifice and offering. The antichrist breaks his covenant with Israel in the middle of the seven-year Tribulation.
  7. After seven days/years, the marriage feast occurs. Jesus returns to earth on a white horse with His Bride to have victory over the earth. (Revelation 19:11-14)  And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True, and in righteousness he doth judge and make war.  (12)  His eyes were as a flame of fire, and on his head were many crowns; and he had a name written, that no man knew, but he himself.  (13)  And he was clothed with a vesture dipped in blood: and his name is called The Word of God.  (14)  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.
  8. Lastly, after the Battle of Armageddon, Jesus reigns in Jerusalem for 1,000 years, known as the Feast of Tabernacles, where He “tabernacles” with man during the Millennial Kingdom!

After walking through the beautiful steps of the Jewish wedding, the timing of the Rapture becomes so much clearer. How could it occur in the middle or at the end of the Tribulation? The biblical pattern shows the Groom and the Bride entering the wedding chamber together for seven full days—a perfect picture of the Church being sheltered in Heaven during the seven-year Tribulation!

By now, the distinction is clear: the Rapture and the Tribulation are two entirely separate events. There is simply no comfort or hope for those destined to endure the darkest chapter in human history. This is why the promise of our removal is so vital.

Titus 2:13  Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;

As you reflect on these truths, remember that the promise of the Rapture is not just a theological debate—it is the “Blessed Hope” for every believer. In a world that feels increasingly heavy and uncertain, we can stand firm knowing that our Groom is preparing a place for us and will return to rescue His Bride before the day of judgment. This assurance is only possible through a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, who paid the price for your soul with His own blood. If you are unsure of your standing with Him or feel the Holy Spirit tugging at your heart today, please don’t wait another moment to secure your eternal future.

Would you like to know more about this life-changing promise? You can find peace and certainty today by learning how to be born again and know it.

Light in the Last Days – Day 20

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Photography by Bonnie Cipriani

Matthew 25:2-13  And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.  (3)  They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:  (4)  But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.  (5)  While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.  (6)  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.  (11)  Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.  (12)  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.  (13)  Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

I have always found the history of weddings fascinating, but nothing compares to the beauty of a traditional Jewish Galilean wedding as seen in Scripture and historical records. When you study the parallels between these ancient customs and the relationship between Jesus and His Church, the spiritual insights are truly profound. If you are born again, diving into this study will surely bring you as much joy and reason to rejoice as it has for me!

Through the story of the wedding feast, Jesus gives us a beautiful yet sobering lesson on readiness. As you read these words again, try to picture the scene in your heart. It’s a call to examine our own lamps and ensure we are prepared for that glorious moment when He finally arrives.

I truly believe this story points directly to the Rapture! When we see oil mentioned in the Bible, it almost always refers to the Holy Spirit. It’s a beautiful reminder that just as oil was used to set people apart for God’s work, we are anointed by the Spirit upon salvation. He dwells within us eternally, a constant presence that will never depart. Can I get an amen?

1 John 2:27  But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him.

Looking at this parable, we see ten virgins, yet only five are ready for the Bridegroom. Why the difference? It all comes down to the oil. The five wise virgins possessed the Holy Spirit (the oil), while the five foolish ones did not. These foolish virgins represent people who may identify as Christians outwardly but have never been truly born again. They carry the ‘lamp’ of religion but lack the ‘oil’ of the Spirit’s indwelling presence. Their lack of salvation is confirmed by the Lord’s own words in verse 12:

Matthew 25:12  But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

John 10:27  My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Jesus is clear: He has no relationship with the foolish virgins. He only recognizes those who are born again and sealed with the Holy Spirit. To be ‘known’ by Him is the defining mark of a true follower!

Now, let’s consider the five wise virgins, who represent the Church. They possess both their lamps—symbolizing their role as the light of the world—and their oil, which represents the Holy Spirit. When the Bridegroom arrives for His Church, the contrast becomes clear: the five foolish virgins, lacking the indwelling of the Holy Spirit that comes through true salvation, were caught unprepared. By the time they attempted to find oil and return, they found the door firmly shut, and Jesus issued that staggering response: He did not know them. It is a sobering reminder of the necessity of a genuine spiritual foundation.

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Revelation 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Can you picture the scene in churches across the world immediately following the Rapture? Imagine the shock of those left behind as they realize their pews are empty and they have missed this glorious event because they weren’t truly born again. They will face the horrific judgments of the Tribulation and the soul-defining choice of whether to take the Mark of the Beast. Even those who find salvation during this time must still endure these global catastrophes, facing martyrdom or a desperate life of survival underground. With so much at stake, why would anyone delay their decision for Christ?

Coming from a Catholic background, I hadn’t heard of the Rapture before finding Christ. But once I was saved, the excitement of being included in that blessed event changed everything for me. It is a heavy thought to realize how many people are choosing the world’s way over the free salvation and personal relationship the Lord offers us today.

If you aren’t sure of your salvation, let this be a turning point for you. It’s no accident that you’ve found this message today. God is reaching out to you in this very moment, providing an opportunity for you to be born again and secure your place with Him eternally. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 17

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Photography by Bonnie Cipriani

Revelation 19:7-8  Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. ( 8 ) And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white: for the fine linen is the righteousness of saints.

Recall our discussion on the vision in Revelation 19: as Jesus descends on a white horse, He is not alone. An army follows in His wake, distinguished by their garments of fine linen, clean and bright. We must then ask—who is this group following the Lord into battle?

According to Revelation 19:8, this fine linen represents the ‘righteousness of the saints.’ Only the Church, the Bride, is dressed in fine linen. All other references to Saints in Revelation are dressed in white robes only. This detail is crucial: if the Church is already in heaven, dressed and ready to return with Christ to battle the Antichrist, a post-Tribulation Rapture becomes logically impossible. The Tribulation is still technically ongoing at this moment, yet the saints are already appearing with Christ to wage war.

Revelation 19:14  And the armies which were in heaven followed him upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

I repeat these Scriptures often because a true understanding of the end times requires looking at the entire Bible, not just a few scattered passages. As we study the whole of Scripture, we must ask: ‘To whom is this judgment directed?’ When we do, we find the comforting truth that the Church is exempt from the wrath to come.

Romans 8:1-4  There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.  (2)  For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.  (3)  For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh:  (4)  That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

God’s judgment on the unbelieving world is coming, but the Church will be kept from it by way of the Rapture. No judgment since the time of Christ has affected the entire planet simultaneously—until the one that is approaching. It is from this unprecedented time of trouble that Jesus promised to rescue His Church:

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

1 Thessalonians 5:9  For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

Ephesians 5:6  Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience.

Colossians 3:6  For which things’ sake the wrath of God cometh on the children of disobedience:

The wrath of God is not destined for those who are born again! Instead, His judgment is directed specifically toward the ‘children of disobedience’—those who have not received His salvation. We can truly praise the Lord for His mercy! 🙌

Does this excite you, reader? It surely does me! But to the one who is not saved, it is a different story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 12

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1 Thessalonians 1:9-10  For they themselves shew of us what manner of entering in we had unto you, and how ye turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God; (10)  And to wait for his Son from heaven, whom he raised from the dead, even Jesus, which delivered us from the wrath to come. 

Good morning! Looking at this sunrise, it’s easy to imagine the Lord just beyond those clouds, waiting for the Father’s word to come and meet us. I find myself living in daily expectation of the Rapture, looking forward to the day our earthly struggles end and we can finally worship at His feet for eternity.

I invite you to share your own excitement for the Rapture in the comments below. While some teach that the Church must face the Tribulation, I find that view leaves little room for the comfort we are called to give one another. If there is no escape from that period of judgment, then the promise of Luke 21:36 loses its power. I choose to look forward to the surprise of His appearing, knowing that He has provided a way for us to stand before the Son of Man instead of facing the wrath to come.

Luke 21:36  Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to ESCAPE all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

What does it mean for the Rapture to be ‘imminent’? It means it’s ‘at the door’—ready to happen at any time! Even way back in AD 51, Paul was emphasizing this truth to his readers. I encourage you to look at today’s verses and put yourself in Paul’s shoes. He knew the Thessalonians were being shaken by false reports that the Day of the Lord had already arrived. To settle their hearts and remind them of the truth, he sent them this message:

2 Thessalonians 2:1-3  Now we beseech you, brethren, by the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, and by our gathering together unto him,  (2)  That ye be not soon shaken in mind, or be troubled, neither by spirit, nor by word, nor by letter as from us, as that the day of Christ is at hand. (3) Let no man deceive you by any means: for that day shall not come, except there come a falling away first, and that man of sin be revealed, the son of perdition;

Paul’s original teachings were being twisted by deceivers, a struggle that feels incredibly modern. Today, the Pre-Tribulation Rapture is a frequent target of criticism and doubt. This wave of skepticism shouldn’t surprise us, though; it’s the very thing the Apostle Peter warned would happen in

2 Peter 3:4  And saying, Where is the promise of his coming? for since the fathers fell asleep, all things continue as they were from the beginning of the creation.

Before the Tribulation can begin, the ‘Man of Sin’ must be revealed (Daniel 9:27). But unlike the Tribulation, the Rapture has no countdown. This reminds me of Noah’s Ark. Noah spent years building a ship for a storm no one believed was coming because it had never even rained (Genesis 2:5-6). The Ark wasn’t built for navigation; it was built for preservation. Noah didn’t know the day the fountains of the deep would burst open, but he was ready. When the time was right, God took control, shut the door, and kept those eight souls safe and sound until the judgment passed.

Consider how Jesus serves as the ultimate Ark for His Church. The moment we are saved, we step into His divine protection. Because He paid the price for our sins on the cross, we are granted entrance into His ‘Ark’ of safety, shielded from the coming wrath. Through the Rapture (Revelation 3:10, 4:1), He will shelter us in heaven until the day we return with Him at His Second Coming. After He judges the earth, we will enter the Millennial Kingdom together, while the Tribulation saints who survive His return will begin to repopulate the earth!

Why does the timing matter? Because a Rapture that follows a set timeline isn’t ‘imminent’—it’s scheduled. Mid and Post-Tribulation views provide a definite calendar: either three and a half or seven years after the treaty is signed. However, as we see in 2 Thessalonians 2:1-2, the early church lived in a state of constant watchfulness. Their confusion about whether the Day of the Lord had already begun proves they weren’t looking for a mid-point or an end-point; they were looking for Jesus to appear at any moment.

Matthew 24:42  Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

Christ Himself commands us to watch because the exact hour of His return is unknown. This uncertainty is what keeps our spiritual focus sharp! If we believed the Rapture was tied to a mid or post-Tribulation schedule, that sense of urgency would vanish because we’d be watching the calendar instead of the clouds. Without the hope of His ‘any-moment’ return, one might be tempted to say, ‘I’ll live for myself now and get right with God just before the deadline.’ But a Pre-Tribulation view inspires us to live for the Lord today, ensuring we are never caught off guard.

It’s inspiring to see how the Thessalonians lived every day as if Christ could return at any moment. Paul reassured them that they didn’t need to obsess over prophetic timelines or ‘times and seasons.’ Instead, he reminded them of our unique position: we aren’t appointed to the coming darkness, but are promised deliverance from the global judgment described below:

1 Thessalonians 5:1-9  But of the times and the seasons, brethren, ye have no need that I write unto you.  (2)  For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.  (3)  For when they shall say, Peace and safety; then sudden destruction cometh upon them, as travail upon a woman with child; and they shall not escape.  (4)  But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.  (5)  Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness.  (6)  Therefore let us not sleep, as do others; but let us watch and be sober.  (7)  For they that sleep sleep in the night; and they that be drunken are drunken in the night.  ( 8 )  But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and love; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation.  (9)  For God hath not appointed us to wrath, but to obtain salvation by our Lord Jesus Christ,

The church is not waiting for the appearing of the Antichrist, but for the redemption of the Son of God, the Lord Jesus Christ. Does this excite you, reader? It surely does me! But to the one who is not saved, it is a different story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 10

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Luke 21:35-36  For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth. (36) Watch ye therefore, and pray always, that ye may be accounted worthy to escape all these things that shall come to pass, and to stand before the Son of man.

Matthew 24:21  For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be.

The world is loud right now, saturated with reports of chaos and global upheaval. But despite the headlines, I am choosing peace over panic. For the believer, there is no room for anxiety—only faith.

The Scriptures offer us a powerful promise: those who are born again and sealed with the Holy Spirit are not destined for the period of wrath intended for the world. While some debate the timing of the Tribulation, the Word of God is clear about its scope. As we see in Luke 21:36 (which urges us to pray that we may be accounted worthy to escape), this coming trial will encompass the entire globe. It will be a time of great distress unlike anything history has ever witnessed, yet we can stand firm in the hope of our deliverance.

Revelation 3:10  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth.

Looking at Revelation 3:10, we see a distinction that changes everything. Jesus promises to ‘keep thee from the hour of temptation.’ If He intended for us to endure it, He might have said He would sustain us through it. But the word ‘from’ suggests a total exemption. How can the Lord keep an entire group of people from a global event? The answer is clear: He must remove us from the earth before it commences. The Greek word and definition for “from” is:

A primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence motion or action proceeds), from, out (of place, time or cause; literally or figuratively; direct or remote):

This verse is specific: Church-age saints are kept from the temptation, not just protected while inside it. Amen! Paul’s letters give us extensive insight into the Rapture, and his message was always one of reassurance. If the Church had to face the Tribulation—the most harrowing period of judgment ever recorded—Paul’s words would offer no comfort. We aren’t looking for the Antichrist or the wrath of God; we are looking for our Savior. Let’s read together:

1 Thessalonians 4:13-18  But I would not have you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning them which are asleep, that ye sorrow not, even as others which have no hope.  (14)  For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so them also which sleep in Jesus will God bring with him.  (15)  For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.  (16)  For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:  (17)  Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord.  (18)  Wherefore comfort one another with these words.

We must distinguish this event from the Second Coming at the end of the Tribulation. At the Second Coming, Christ returns to stand upon the earth; however, verse 17 tells us specifically that we will meet Him in the air. Remember Jesus’ promise in John 14:1–3: He went to His Father’s house to prepare a place for us so that He could receive us to Himself. If we were simply staying on earth, why would He spend 2,000 years preparing ‘mansions’ or rooms in His Father’s house in Heaven? Those who believe we endure the Tribulation struggle to explain this, often suggesting these dwellings are on earth—but the Word points upward! Ultimately, if we were destined for the horrors of Revelation, Paul’s command to ‘comfort one another’ would be impossible. There is no comfort in judgment; the comfort is in our rescue.

Does this excite you, reader? It surely does me! But to the one who is not saved, it is a different story. Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!

Light in the Last Days – Day 6

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Revelation 6:16-17  And said to the mountains and rocks, Fall on us, and hide us from the face of him that sitteth on the throne, and from the wrath of the Lamb:  (17)  For the great day of his wrath is come; and who shall be able to stand?

To imagine living in a time where biblical prophecies are actually shifting from “future events” to “current headlines” is both sobering and awe-inspiring. This shift began with Israel becoming a nation on May 15, 1948! (See Ezekiel 11:17, 37:22, and Jeremiah 31:10) It suggests a world where the veil between the physical and spiritual realms is narrowing. For the believer, this isn’t a cause for panic, but a signal to wake up and recognize the weight of the moment. If you’re not born again, I pray that you will be disturbed enough by what you read that it stirs your heart to be saved!!

Today’s verses talk about the wrath of the Lamb that is to come. What is this wrath? Who is going to suffer this wrath? The Lamb is Jesus Christ, the ultimate Judge and Redeemer, and when His judgment upon this earth begins, there will be no turning back; no opportunity for repentance. Each judgment will be worse than the one before, and will come more rapidly, creating fear and despair among those left behind. Jesus spoke of this time as birth pains, illustrating the inevitable and intense nature of these forthcoming tribulations. Just as a woman’s labor pains intensify and come closer together, so too will the end-time events unfold with increasing severity and frequency, overwhelming the world with chaos and a great suffering never seen before. The Rapture of the church will have already happened, a moment of great hope and salvation for believers, and those who remain will find themselves entangled in a horrific time on this earth like no other, known as the Tribulation. This will look like something out of a sci-fi movie but, friend, it will be reality. This intense period is called the time of God’s wrath upon the earth, His response to the unrepentant hearts of mankind. It has been prophesied from the Old Testament, where warnings were issued through the prophets, all the way through to the last book in the New Testament in the Book of Revelation, reinforcing the call for all to recognize the signs and prepare for what is inevitably on the horizon.

It is true that history is marked by cycles of suffering. From the Roman arenas to modern-day conflicts like the killing of Jews and Christians, faith has often been tested by fire. However, the argument here is that these events, while terribly tragic, were “geographically or culturally contained.” They were “shadows” of a larger, global event yet to come.

Revelation 14:10  The same shall drink of the wine of the wrath of God, which is poured out without mixture into the cup of his indignation; and he shall be tormented with fire and brimstone in the presence of the holy angels, and in the presence of the Lamb:

Mid-Tribulation and Post Tribulation believers say that Christians will go through half or all of the Tribulation. However, this doesn’t jive with the Scriptures because the Tribulation saints won’t be delivered from the wrath but will be overcome by it.

Revelation 13:7  And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

Proponents of the Pre-Tribulation view argue that Mid and Post-Tribulation theories fail to account for the fundamental nature of the seven-year period.

  • The Promise of Deliverance: The Church is specifically promised that it is not “appointed to wrath” (1 Thessalonians 5:9). If the Tribulation—from the very first seal—is defined as the “wrath of the Lamb,” then the Church must be removed before it begins.
  • A Different Mandate: The Church is promised that “the gates of hell shall not prevail against it,” yet the Tribulation saints are described as being overcome by the beast (Revelation 13:7). This suggests two different groups under two different divine missions.

The fate of believers during the Tribulation stands in distinct contrast to the destiny of the Church. Scripture explicitly states that the Antichrist will be permitted to “make war with the saints and to overcome them” (Daniel 7:21; Revelation 13:7). Their victory is not found in physical escape, but in faithfulness unto death. In contrast, the Church is told to look for a “Blessed Hope”—the imminent return of Christ to rescue them from the “hour of trial” (Revelation 3:10).

The term “saints” simply means “holy ones” or “believers.” Mid and Post-Tribulation views often assume “saints” always refers to the Church. However, the Pre-Tribulation view argues:

  1. The Church is Absent: After Revelation chapter 3, the word “Church” (ekklesia) is never mentioned again until the very end of the book.
  2. A New Group: The “Tribulation Saints” are those who wash their robes in the blood of the Lamb after the Tribulation has already begun. (Revelation 7:14) They endure the wrath that the Church was specifically promised to avoid. As well, their robes are made white. The Bride’s (the Church) robes are made of fine linen, white and clean. (Revelation 19:14)

We are told in the Scriptures that, just as in Noah’s day when God shut the door to the ark, that God will shut the door after the Rapture and no one will be able to escape the Tribulation. Jesus described it in the Parable of the Ten Virgins also. These passages refer to a door being open and shut. When God shut the door to the Ark, Noah and His family were protected. When God shuts the door after the Rapture, the Church will be protected from the wrath of the Lamb.

Matthew 25:6-10  And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.  (7)  Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.  ( 8 )  And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.  (9)  But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.  (10)  And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

Revelation 3:8,10; 4:1  I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.  (10)  Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. 4:1  After this I looked, and, behold, a door was opened in heaven: and the first voice which I heard was as it were of a trumpet talking with me; which said, Come up hither, and I will shew thee things which must be hereafter.

Once the door is shut, no one can enter. Those who are alive at the time appointed by God to Rapture His Church, will be kept from the hour of temptation that will come upon the whole earth. All other times of persecution during history did not occur upon the whole earth, but just parts of it. The antichrist will be in power in order to cause havoc upon the entire earth. The Church has been taken up in the Rapture. The word “church” occurs 80 times in 79 verses in the King James Bible. It is found only seven times in the Book of Revelation and only in chapters 2 and 3; the word churches appears at the end of Revelation. It is not mentioned once in between those chapters. Once Jesus opens the door to Heaven to Rapture the Church, that door is shut and no one can open it. It is done at that point.

Revelation 3:7-8  And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write; These things saith he that is holy, he that is true, he that hath the key of David, he that openeth, and no man shutteth; and shutteth, and no man openeth;  (8)  I know thy works: behold, I have set before thee an open door, and no man can shut it: for thou hast a little strength, and hast kept my word, and hast not denied my name.

The Apostle John was given the opportunity to see and hear what would happen during the Tribulation. God called him up through an opened door. This is indicative of the Rapture of the Church. We now see that the following chapters now refer to the Jews. The Jews rejected Christ at His first coming and the Gospel of Christ was entrusted to the Church until Christ came at the Rapture. After this event, the Jews will come back into the picture and will ultimately see Jesus Christ is their long-awaited Messiah!

If you are a born-again Christian and have never studied this out, I hope you are blessed by it and encouraged in your heart. If you are not born again, I urge you to settle the matter right now! Friend, it is no coincidence that God has placed you here for such a time as this so that you may be saved. Please click here and the link will open up in a separate tab to You Can Be Born Again and Know It!